What is Veganuary?
Veganuary is a challenge where participants eat only plant-based foods for the month of January.
What can happen to my hair?
Consuming a plant-based only diet can be difficult to ensure our bodies get the right amount of nutrients. The most important nutrients that are essential for our hair to grow, be strong and healthy that vegetarians and vegans may struggle to get plenty of are protein, iron and vitamin B12.
Usually if you are deficient in these nutrients it will show in your hair, skin and nails first. You may experience your hair feeling weak, brittle and break easily. It is also common to notice more hair fall and hair feeling thinner.
Due to the hair growth cycle, it can take around 3 months after switching your diet to notice the effects.
What can I do to prevent this?
It’s important to ensure you eat a varied, well-balanced diet containing all the nutrients our hair needs to grow and be healthy. Alongside this, a supplement can be taken daily to top up what you are missing.
Good plant-based sources of protein
Quinoa, tofu, soy products, beans, lentils, nuts and chickpeas. If your diet allows them eggs, salmon and cheese are also good sources of protein.
Good plant-based sources of iron
Dark leafy greens such as kale and spinach, dried fruits such as apricots, almonds, soybeans and pulses.
Sources of Vitamin B12
Vegetables or plant sources do not contain Vitamin B12. Some soy milks and cereals are fortified to contain B12. If your diet allows milk and eggs are good sources.
My hair needs help, what can I do?
A Hair and Scalp Specialist will be able to determine why you are experiencing problems with your hair and prescribe a treatment plan to ensure your hair is healthy.
To find out more take a look at our Hair and Scalp Consultation process.